KIGALI, July 5 (Xinhua) -- Rwandans on Friday commemorated the 31st anniversary of Liberation Day, a milestone the government described as a turning point that restored the dignity, hope, and unity of the Rwandan people.

The nationwide celebrations included discussions on Rwanda's achievements over the past 31 years since the end of the genocide, as well as the inauguration of various infrastructure projects aimed at improving residents' lives.

The central African country marks the Liberation Day, known locally as Kwibohora, every year on July 4, when the Rwandan Patriotic Army, the armed wing of the Rwandan Patriotic Front during the liberation struggle, ended the 1994 Rwandan genocide against the Tutsi that claimed over 1 million lives.

Speaking at a press conference in the national capital of Kigali, President Paul Kagame reflected on the nation's post-liberation journey, saying, "It's been a very tough but enjoyable journey based on the fact that this is the best thing one can do to be part of the many years of struggle to put things right for our country, for our people."

"For Rwanda, the progress we have made speaks for itself: building the unity of purpose, the strength to preserve ourselves and live. This Rwanda cannot live on the whims of others. No, it happened once, it will never happen again," he added.

Rwandan legislator Frank Habineza told Xinhua that Liberation Day is a time to reflect on how far the country has come and to inspire all Rwandans to continue working toward a better future.

Kagame has been credited with promoting unity, peace, and good governance, while also positioning Rwanda as one of Africa's fastest-growing economies, with notable reductions in poverty. ■